Windham County Action Network (WeCAN)

“No matter what men think, abortion is a fact of life. Women have always had them; they always have and they always will. Are they going to have good ones or bad ones? Will the good ones be reserved for the rich, while the poor women go to quacks?”
― Shirley Chisholm, Unbought And Unbossed
Shirley Anita Chisholm was an American politician, educator, and author. In 1968, she became the first black woman elected to the United States Congress. Chisholm represented New York's 12th congressional district, a district centered on Bedford–Stuyvesant, for seven terms from 1969 to 1983.

    Thank you, WeCANners, to all those who came out on Tuesday to rally for abortion rights, made calls this week to their Representatives, donated to abortion mutual funds and pro-choice non-profits, and had difficult conversations with those around them in an effort to support individuals who want to maintain their bodily autonomy when it comes to reproductive issues. Thank you, too, to those who did not do any of those things, but simply held silent vigil for themselves or others who have been affected by reproductive right restrictions or forced pregnancies. Finally, thank you to all the volunteers, organizers, activists, physicians, lawyers, teachers, and politicians that have put themselves and their careers on the line to support people of all genders who wish to take advantage of the laws in this country that allow for abortions for any reason. 
     If you found yourself a bit paralyzed this week after hearing SCOTUS' draft decision, with no idea what direction to take or where to go for information, that's ok! With so much going on in the world (and Covid still very much all around us), it is impossible to stay on top of every important issue all the time. If you'd like to get involved locally or to read more about the future of abortion and the right reproductive freedom in Vermont, here are a few links to get you started:

1) Vermont Access to Reproductive Freedom
VT Access provides financial assistance to help Vermonters pay for abortion through grassroots fundraising, working to equalize access and promote economic justice. In solidarity with the National Network of Abortion Funds, “we envision a world where every reproductive decision, including abortion, takes place in thriving communities that are safe, peaceful, and affordable. We envision a world where all people have the power and resources to care for and affirm their bodies, identities, and health for themselves and their families—in all areas of their lives. How we help: 
a) Patients seeking funding call our 24 hour answering service and provide basic information about their appointment.
b) A Vermont Access board member returns their call within 1 day
c) No eligibility criteria. Patients define their need, and are granted as much as possible depending on our available funds. 
d) We fund on a first-come, first-served basis until we reach our minimum balance, at which point funding is suspended and callers are redirected to alternate funds.

2) Vermont for Reproductive Liberty Campaign
Please feel free to reach out to [email protected] with any questions. 
The Reproductive Liberty Amendment, previously Prop 5, will be a ballot measure in Vermont's 2022 General Election this November. If passed, it would amend Vermont's constitution to protect every person's right to make their own reproductive decisions, like whether and when to become pregnant, use temporary or permanent birth control, or seek abortion care. Important medical decisions should be guided by a patient's health and wellbeing, not by a politician's beliefs. But for far too long, politicians across the country have been fighting to restrict reproductive health care, and now they are gaining ground. Protecting personal reproductive liberty in the Vermont Constitution will preserve this right in our state, no matter what happens in Washington, D.C. If we succeed, this will be a groundbreaking achievement. Vermont could become the first state in the nation to explicitly protect reproductive rights in its constitution and pave the way for other states to do the same.

3) Sister District Project and Lean Left VT
One of the best ways to help our neighbors in red states that have reproductive right restrictions is to support them in electing Democratic representatives at the local and federal levels. We are fortunate that two organizations that help to "turn red states blue" have branches in VT; they are always looking for volunteers, donations, and allies to help them in their respective missions and we encourage you to check out their websites and get involved if you are able. From Southern VT Sister District: "Through persistence and creativity we’ve been raising 10’s of 1,000’s of dollars each year for progressive candidates in VERY strategic, state-level races (PA, VA, FL). If you are appalled by what is happening in the Supreme Court and looking for a way to support reproductive choice, (we) invite you to join our mighty little Southern Vermont Sister District Team." - SVTSD Member Peg Alden
  

4) Planned Parenthood of Northern New England (PPNNE)
At Planned Parenthood our mission is to ensure all people have access to the care and resources they need to make informed decisions about their bodies, their lives, and their futures. We are committed to advancing the health of young people in this country by providing comprehensive sex education that is medically accurate, culturally responsive, equitable and accessible — as well as inclusive of varying gender identities, expressions and sexual orientations. Planned Parenthood provides education and outreach to 1.1 million people every year, and millions more through digital sex education tools. You can learn about the Planned Parenthood Vermont Action Fund and how to get involved at the local level HERE. 

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Action of the Week, via Our Facebook Page, from WeCAN Member Ann Zimmerman

"...(I)t's not surprising that Governor Scott vetoed H708, the Just Cause Eviction Burlington Charter Change bill, despite the fact that the local voters overwhelmingly supported this with a 64% majority. Even in a severe housing crisis the Governor has shown he just doesn't stand with ordinary Vermonters who could become homeless on a whim. The good news is that the legislature will hold a vote on this coming Tueday to override the Governor's veto. Let your Senators and Rep know they should vote to override! It's so important, especially during the state's housing crisis, to protect tenants from arbitrary no cause eviction in our state's most populated city. Really, we need Just Cause Eviction throughout our state, but let's start with supporting the voters of Burlington.

HAPPENING TODAY:
SUNDAY, MAY 8th, 2022

The Second Perennial Nettle Festival
Sunday, May 8th, 2022 at the Putney Community Center (10 Christian Square, Putney, VT 05346). 10:30am-2pm.
For nettlers and non-nettlers alike! Join us as we celebrate the diverse benefits of nettles and wild Spring medicinals with art, food, and community. All are welcome!

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HAPPENING THIS WEEK:
MONDAY, MAY 9th, 2022, 2022-SUNDAY, MAY 15th, 2022

THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED: Brattleboro Democracy Forum: Rebirthing Democracy!: What Is It & Why Do We Need To?
Monday, May 9th, 2022 at Brooks Memorial Library (224 Main Street, Brattleboro, VT, 05301), in the Community Room and on Zoom. 6pm.
To join the Zoom meeting click or copy this link into your search bar on the 9th: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86576460007?pwd=ZGpVWUhnVmRHbFR2SlhKTVZmVU1oZz09
Join us with Liam Madden, activist and political change maker, who describes what kinds of structural innovations need to be considered to create a politics capable of meeting our biggest challenges. Rebirthing Democracy focuses not on changing the players, but instead on changing the rules to the game - through innovations to the technology, social processes, and mindsets we use to collectively solve big, complex and scary problems.
Liam is a Marine Corps Veteran, an anti war leader, and an MIT climate solver. He lives in Bellows Falls with his wife Lauren, son, June (3), and perhaps by the time of this event a new son Winn. Liam is a solar energy professional.
The views expressed at the Brattleboro Democracy Forum are not necessarily those of Brooks Memorial Library or its employees.
The Brattleboro Democracy Forum is produced by We Celebrate Democracy Civil Rights For All, a nonprofit in Marlboro Vermont dedicated to positive nonviolent public action for democracy and civil rights for all people.

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Trivia Night to Benefit the Afghan Community Center
hosted by the Brattleboro Sunrise Rotary Club
Monday, May 9th, 2022 at the American Legion (32 Linden Road, Brattleboro, VT, 05301). 6:30pm.
The American Legion and Brattleboro Sunrise Rotary Trivia will follow the current guidance of the CDC and the State of Vermont regarding COVID-19 safety measures.
Open to all. Doors open at 6pm. $20 gets you in the door, buys dinner, and supports our charity partner. Cash bar will be available.
In case you missed April’s SUPER fun trivia night, there is another opportunity coming up on Monday, May 9th!
If you've never joined us, please come out and give it a try. There is no requirement to be good at Trivia, just a willingness to come out and have some fun and support a great cause!

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Brenda for Governor Virtual Launch
hosted by Brenda Siegel for Vermont
Monday, May 9th, 2022, Online. 7pm-8pm.
Register here: https://actionnetwork.org/.../brenda-for-governor.../
Did you hear? I'm running for Governor! I believe in a Vermont that works for all of us, and as Governor, I'm prepared to be the leader we all deserve.
Last Monday, I stood on the State House steps for the first time since 6 months ago, when I said I would not leave those steps until the GA Program that houses our community members experiencing homelessness was fully reinstated. I did not know that I would be there for 27 nights and right up until that last day many people thought that we could not win. But we won.
And we can continue to win if we join together. Can I count on you to be a part of this fight?
Please join me for my virtual campaign launch this coming Monday, May 9th, from 7pm-8 pm. I'll talk about how we can make real change for everyday Vermonters, answer questions from you, and start to build the campaign team that will win in November.
Can't wait to see you on Monday!

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HAPPENING OUTSIDE WINDHAM COUNTY: KEENE, NEW HAMPSHIRE
Protect Abortion Rights
Event by The Reproductive Freedom Fund of New Hampshire, Keene Mutual Aid and Party for Socialism and Liberation - Southern NH
Tuesday, May 10th, 2022 at Central Square in Keene, NH 03431. 5pm.
Join us for a rally and march against the presence of anti-choice institutions in our city such as crisis pregnancy centers, and in support of protections for abortion rights, Roe V Wade, and local reproductive justice organizations. Come prepared to march. Safety will be a top priority for this event.

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Conversation on Petroglyphs
cosponsored by the Rockingham Historic Preservation Commission and the Rockingham Library
Wednesday, May 11th, 2022, Online. 7pm.
To request a zoom invitation to this program, email [email protected], call 802-463-4270, or stop by the library at 65 Westminster St., Bellows Falls, Vt.
On Wednesday, May 11 at 7 p.m., join Dr. Michael J. Fuller for a conversation about the meanings of petroglyphs created around the world, while referencing a local site: the petroglyphs at the Great Falls in present-day Bellows Falls, known to the Abenaki as Kchi Ponteku, over Rockingham Library zoom.
Dr. Fuller is a Professor Emeritus of Anthropology at St. Louis Community College in Missouri. He has participated in over 60 archaeological surveys and excavations in Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Oregon from 1970 to 2022. His ongoing research project involves the location and documentation of rock art sites in North America. He visited and documented the petroglyphs in Bellows Falls in 2014.
This program, cosponsored by the Rockingham Historic Preservation Commission and the Rockingham Library, was made possible in part by funding through the Vermont Division for Historic Preservation and the National Park Service.

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Guilford Cares Food Pantry
Thursday, May 12th, 2022 at the Guilford Fairgrounds (163 Fairground Rd, Guilford, VT 05301). 3pm-4pm. 
If you have questions, concerns or would like to donate groceries or monetary gifts please contact Pat Haine 802-257-0626. For additional questions or more information call 802 579 1350 or email [email protected]. 
Guilford Cares Food Pantry has moved! The Pantry has moved to the First Aid building at the Guilford Fairgrounds. We will be fully stocked with all our usual grocery items.
The Fairgrounds are on Fairground Road, just off Weatherhead Hollow Road. From Guilford Center Road turn onto Weatherhead Hollow Road. Travel 1.7 miles down the road. The Fairgrounds are on the left and there will be a sign directing you up the hill for about .2 miles. The red building is on the left with a sign out in front. Please remain in your car; we’ll greet you,  and give you a shopping list as we have been doing for the past year.
If the Pantry will be closed for any unexpected reason, the closure will be announced on WKVT, WTSA, and Front Porch Forum.
If you cannot come to the Pantry due to illness or high risk, you can call also call Pat to arrange for food delivery by a volunteer.
We know that supplemental food can make such a big difference in one's budget. That is why we are stocking our shelves for our neighbors. All are welcome to come and take home fresh produce, staples, meat, dairy.
Guilford Cares welcomes anyone in need of supplemental food for themselves or their families.

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Co-ops Change the World: An Inspiring and Educational Speaker Series
hosted by the Brattleboro Food Co-op
Thursday, May 12th, 2022, Online. 7pm-8:30pm.
Please register in advance for Zoom information: https://www.brattleborofoodcoop.coop/event/co-ops-change-the-world/.
The cooperative business model is a key solution in creating a more democratic and egalitarian global society. Join us to learn more, get inspired by what co-ops have brought to our collective table, and dream about the better world they will help us create. Guest speaker Terry Appleby will explore two key historical figures who both speak deeply to the current moment - Toyohiko Kagawa and James Peter Warbasse - followed by a Q&A moderated by BFC Board President Jerelyn Wilson.
Terry Appleby has been involved with the cooperative movement for more than 40 years, Read more about him here https://www.heroes.coop/post/terry-appleby. The event will also be followed up with a more informal in-person discussion on May 17th at 5pm with Jerelyn - more details TBD.

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Bans Off Our Bodies National Day of Action: Find Your Local Rally
Saturday, May 14th, 2022 at various locations.
Just last week a draft opinion was leaked from the Supreme Court confirming our worst fears: Roe v. Wade is on the brink of being overturned. 
Our reproductive rights are under direct attack and we can’t afford to stay silent. That’s why The Women's March has partnered with Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Ultraviolet, and MoveOn, to join forces and take to the streets on May 14th, 2022. 
To match the urgency of this moment, we need this to be our biggest mobilization yet and make sure we have record numbers of marchers next Saturday. That’s why it’s critical we respond ASAP with the full-force of our grassroots movement — including marchers in 05301 — to defend our reproductive rights.
Will you RSVP for an event happening near you? It’s important that our organizers know ASAP that you’re attending, so we can share details about what to expect.

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Virtual Cooking Event
hosted by Edible Brattleboro
Sunday, May 15th, 2022, Online. 4pm.
You can access the free class here:  https://www.youtube.com/c/BrattleboroCommunityTV
Beans are a magical super food. Inexpensive, loaded with protein and fiber, they provide a healthy, fat-free alternative to meat, and taste great! In this video class, you can interact live with Edible Brattleboro "chefs" while they demonstrate two recipes - Roasted Sweet Potato Black Bean Salad and Creamy Cannellini Bean Pasta. Recipes will be posted on our website. The video will not be available until its launch on 5/15 at 4pm.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Vermont Food Bank’s Veggie Van Go Upcoming Schedule
The First and Third Mondays of Every Month in the parking lot across the street from the main entrance to Brattleboro Union High School (131 Fairground Road, Brattleboro, VT, 05301). 10am-11am. 
Please, no early birds. 
Questions? Call 1-800-585-2265 or email [email protected]. 
Veggie Van Go is a program through the Vermont Foodbank that gives out free produce and local food for people to take home.
ATTENTION: Starting in May, the VT Foodbank asks that participants arrive at the Brattleboro Union High School no earlier than 9:45am. Cars that arrive early will be turned away until the start of the event. 
May 16th, 2022

Important information:

• Drive through model- please stay in your vehicles
• If you are walking there: see a Vermont Foodbank associate but please make sure to stay 6 feet back.
• There are no income requirements, registration or paperwork to participate
• You do not need to be present to get food: you may ask someone to pick up on your family's behalf.

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A Silent Vigil of Loving Kindness 
Wednesday, May 18th, 2022 at Wells Fountain, Brattleboro (298-250 VT-30, Brattleboro, VT 05301). 4:30pm-5:30pm.
For further information and to be on the mailing list for future vigils, please contact Tim Stevenson, [email protected].
Under a banner that reads, “Holding a Space of Loving Kindness for All Living Beings,” we conduct a silent vigil every other Wednesday, 4:30pm-5:30pm, at Wells Fountain across from Brooks Library and the Municipal Building, downtown Brattleboro
Our purpose is to serve as a living reminder of the inherent goodness of each of us, as well as our inextricable connection with one another.
For a few minutes or the entire hour, all are welcome to join us in extending sentiments of loving kindness to all living beings: to family and friends, neighbors and strangers, kindred spirits and adversaries, human and non-human beings, alike. And to ourselves, as well. People may choose to stand, kneel, or sit in a chair they bring, or on one of the stone benches circling the Fountain.
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Cornstock: Cornhole for a Cause
to benefit Youth Services of Windham County; this event is presented by Chroma Technology
Saturday, May 21st, 2022 at the Retreat Farm (45 Farmhouse Square, Brattleboro, VT, 05301). 12pm-6pm.
The $25 early registration fee per player is waived for those willing to find sponsors through peer-to-peer fundraising and incentive prizes are offered at all levels of fundraising. The registration fee doubles to $50 per person day of the event, if lanes are still available. Spectators are welcome at a suggested $5 donation at the gate.
For more information or to register a team of four or more, visit youthservicesinc.org/cornstock/, email [email protected] or call (802) 257-0361 x131
There will be something for everyone at this event: cornhole matches for groups of 4+ people every hour on the hour; food trucks, the Thirsty Goat Pub, the Creemee Stand and live music. The goal is to raise $20,000 to support Youth Services' 20 vital programs in Windham County.

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Meet and Greet with Nader Hashim, Candidate for VT State Senate
Saturday, May 21st, 2022 at the Vermont Center for Photography (10 Green Street, Brattleboro, VT, 05301). 2pm.
There will be light refreshments and brief remarks at 3:00pm.
Disclaimers: This event is paid for by the committee to elect Nader Hashim. The VCP as an organization does not endorse any candidates.
Come join candidate for state senate Nader Hashim at the Vermont Center for Photography (VCP) on May 21st, from 2pm-:3:30pm, for a meet-and-greet!
Nader Hashim, a previously elected democratic state representative, is hoping to meet folks in Brattleboro and surrounding communities to hear about their concerns and questions regarding state government.
As a hobbyist photographer, Nader is grateful for the opportunity to meet with other artists at the VCP, and discuss the value of the creative economy. Beyond the creative economy, Nader is also focused on supporting and discussing legislation related to housing, workforce development, and climate change. In his previous term as a state representative, Nader was a strong advocate for raising the minimum wage, paid family leave, criminal justice reform, and protecting reproductive healthcare.

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Michelle’s Souper Supper
hosted by Rep Michelle Bos-Lun
Sunday, May 22nd, 2022 at 94 CCC Road, Bellows Falls, VT, 05101. 5:30pm-7pm.
Event by Donation: you can contribute at https://secure.actblue.com/donate/michelle4windham4
Come enjoy live music, homemade soups, salads, cornbread and desserts and a chance to connect with Michelle and help her raise funds for her re-election campaign for the VT House of Representatives.
You can donate online or bring a check book (we can't accept cash due to campaign finance guidelines). Join us to raise funds to send Michelle back to Montpelier for two more years!

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Spark Teacher Education Solidarity Film Series: The Boys Who Said No
sponsored by Brooks Memorial Library 
Friday, May 27th, 2022, TBD. 7pm.
Professional development credits available. For more information contact Spark Teacher Education Institute at [email protected].
Zoom Meeting ID: 829 4329 6979
This documentary profiles the young men and women who actively opposed the military draft in order to end the Vietnam War. The film shows how their personal and collective acts of nonviolent resistance, risking arrest and imprisonment for up to 5 years, were a critical part of the antiwar movement, intensifying opposition to the war and eventually forcing an end to both conscription and the war. May be in person, details available soon. 

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From the Parlor to the Polling Place: Stories and Songs from the Suffragists
hosted by the VT Humanities Council
Wednesday, June 1st, 2022 at Brooks Memorial Library (224 Main Street, Brattleboro, VT, 05301). 7pm. 
This talk has been postponed to Wednesday, June 1. Singer and historian Linda Radtke, in period garb and a “Votes for Women” sash, celebrates the centennial of the passage of the 19th Amendment, which gave the right to vote to white women. Linda Radtke, a classically trained singer, was a Vermont high school teacher for thirty-one years and now produces the VPR Choral Hour on Vermont Public Radio.

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Plant and Seed Swap and Giveaway
hosted by Edible Brattleboro 
Saturday, June 4th, 2022 at the Edible Brattleboro Greenhouse at the Retreat Farm (45 Farmhouse Road, Brattleboro, VT, 05301. The Greenhouse is located on Route 30, adjacent to the West River). 10am-2pm (or until we run out).
Pease park in the parking lot across the road and walk through the tunnel to cross. Free. No registration is necessary.
It's not too late to plant a garden. Oftentimes we purchase a six-pack of starts and only have space for 2 plants. Bring your extras to our plant and seed swap or come empty-handed and go home with whatever you need. We'll accept your extra seeds as well!

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Farm to Fork Tool Cottage Launch at Brooks Memorial Library
hosted by Edible Brattleboro
Saturday, June 4th, 2022 at the The Red Cottage (located in the parking lot between Brooks Memorial Library and Municipal Building, 230 Main St, Brattleboro VT, 05301). 10am-12pm.
Free.
Do you want to start gardening but don't have any garden tools... yet? Or have you wanted to try out an immersion blender to see if you should add it to your wish list? Kitchen and garden tools will soon be available at the library, thanks to a grant from the Vermont Foodbank. All you need is a library card. Celebrate the launch of the new Farm to Fork Kitchen and Garden Tool Library! Activities to be announced.

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Pride Family Potluck
hosted by Out in the Open
Saturday, June 11th, 2022 at Living Memorial Park (61 Guilford Street, Brattleboro, VT, 05301), at the Kiwanis Shelter. 11am-1pm.
Questions? Email [email protected] or go to www.weareoutintheopen.org. All ages welcome.
Save the date for the return of our Pride Family Potluck! 
Any amount or configuration of LGBTQ+ people are/is a family! People of all ages are welcome. There are many people who come with kids and many who do not. 
Please bring a dish to share if you are able. We’ll provide fruit, chips, franks (both meat and non), buns, soft drinks, plates, napkins, cutlery, and cups! 
This gathering will be 100% outside. Folks are welcome to wear masks anywhere and everywhere and to distance as you'd like. There is a lot of space in the field adjacent to the Kiwanis Shelter to spread out as well. If you have COVID or are not feeling well, please stay home.
Let us know if you have questions! 

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Summer Institute: Documenting Everyday Life
hosted by the Vermont Folklife Center
Wednesday, July 6th, 2022-Thursday, July 7th, 2022 at 118 Elliot Gallery (118 Elliot Street, Brattleboro, VT, 05301). Begins at 10am on Wednesday and ends at 4:30pm on Thursday.
Tuition fees listed below. Please go here: https://www.vermontfolklifecenter.org/events/si22-documenting-everyday-life for more information.
Schedule:
In-Person Wednesday, July 6th, 2022 and Thursday, July 7th, 2022, 10am - 4:30pm, plus an evening event on Wednesday, June 6th, 2022.
The Vermont Folklife Center’s work is guided by this central question: How can I/we understand experience from the point of view of the person or group to whom that experience belongs? 
This 2-day, in person workshop will present the foundations of our particular skill set and approach, what we refer to as the “ethnographic toolkit.” Capturing the scope of everyday life through deep listening and description is a part of how ethnography builds context. These tools can be used by anyone looking to engage with a community or group of people to reach a deeper understanding about how we live and live together.

As a group, we will:

• Explore strategies for community-based learning and inquiry that center on collaborative and ethical engagement
• Learn from ethnographers who have adapted this framework in their projects 
• Conduct mini-fieldwork trips and participant observation; write field notes from several ‘scales of attention’ (self, neighborhood, community)
• Gain basic experience with digital media making, with a critical lens on documentary work and the ethics of representation

This workshop will leave participants with a deeper understanding of the ethics of representation in all public work on Vermont community life and cultures. Space and time will be provided to work individually and as a cohort to apply the ethnographic toolkit within your own community projects, research, media-making endeavors, classroom plans, or areas of interest. 
Tuition and Graduate Credit:
Course fees are on a sliding scale ranging between $275 - $525. There is the option to take this course for 1-graduate credit for an additional $125. Financial Aid is available (email [email protected] for more information)
Cancellation Policy:
No refunds after June 22, 2022. Written cancellation notice (email or snail mail) must be received by that date for a refund minus a $25 administrative fee.

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POSTPONED: Tree Planting and CommUNITY Potluck
hosted by Susu Community Farm
Saturday, May 7th, 2022-Sunday, May 8th, 2022 at Susu Community Farm (94 West River Roa, Newfane, VT). 10am-4pm.
If you come, apparently Google maps will take you to the wrong place if you use our mailing address. That's fun lol. So type, 94 River Road, Newfane, VT 05345. NOT WEST RIVER ROAD.
On May 7-8th we will be hosting a Tree Planting & CommUNITY Potluck at our new farm at 94 W River Road in Newfane. 
This is a potluck style commUNITY event. We will be providing some food and drinks but there's no better way to connect than over food! So if you want to make it extra special and bring a cultural dish or something of importance to you we would be honored to share a meal with you. 
We're also asking the commUNITY to bring shovels and gloves if they have them. 
Wheelbarrows would be SUPER appreciated. As those are in limited supply at SUSU.
Please wear appropriate clothing and shoes. This is a working farm and we care about your safety.
Come to sweat, laugh and connect! We can't wait to see you!

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New Community Food Initiative

Have You Heard of Farm Stand Together?
Find more info and apply here: https://www.farmstandtogethervt.org/
Delicious Food on your Terms in your Community! From their site: 
"We believe that everyone should have access to the delicious foods Vermont farmers are growing and making. 
The Farm Stand Together mutual food aid program will be providing gift cards for use at a small selection of farm stands across Vermont. The program is in trial and access in this first round will be limited. 
Gift cards will work like regular credit cards at participating farm stands, and can be used to purchase any items at the stand. They can be spent all at once or over time."
Buy what you want and need – there are no strings attached to your gift card. Shop at the location that's most accessible to you.
Use your Farm Stand Together gift card to reduce the cost of buying local food.
Buy food grown and produced thoughtfully to provide nutritious – and delicious – food.
Keep Vermont money in the Vermont community. Shop for your groceries from farmers and producers in your own area.

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ONGOING EVENTS

Recovery Families
hosted by Turning Point
Fridays at Turning Point of Windham County Recovery Center (39 Elm Street, Brattleboro, VT, 05301). 10am-11am. 
Young children welcome!
Join other caregivers for connection and support of your own recovery journey or that of someone you love. 

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Taking Steps Brattleboro, a program of Brattleboro Area Hospice is offering Advance Care Planning Weekly Zoom Information Sessions on Wednesdays from 10am-11am.
If you are interested in attending the Zoom info session, or want more information about Advance Care Planning, please contact Ruth Nangeroni, Advance Care Planning Program Coordinator at 802-257-0775 ext 101 or [email protected].
Advance care planning ensures that your loved ones and health professionals know what you  want in a medical emergency when you are unable to speak for yourself. It’s a process of creating a written health care plan(advance directive) that tells others what you would want if you couldn’t tell them yourself.
Advance Care Planning includes discussing choices about end-of-life (EOL) care with your medical provider, family and others. It involves choosing and educating your Health Care Agent and making informed decisions to complete an Advance Directive. Join us and learn more. Find out if adding a COVID-19 or Dementia provision would be beneficial to include or add to a previously completed Advance Directive.
Brattleboro Area Hospice (BAH) is an independent, non-profit organization that provides non-medical support to dying and grieving community members and volunteer-staffed assistance with Advance Care Planning. BAH is 100% locally funded, and provides services free of charge. Services are available to anyone living in southeastern Vermont or bordering New Hampshire towns.
Advance Care Planning: It’s how people care for one another.

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Job Opportunities

WeCAN Community Member Needs Assistance

Brenda Siegel, our dear friend and WeCAN community member, is recovering from surgery and in need of community support. You can use THIS LINK to access her meal train website where there are both food and light housework slots that need to be filled in the coming weeks. If you are able, please sign up! Check out the "Review All Instructions" yellow tab on Brenda's meal train homepage for more information on specific needs, allergies, and suggestions. Thank you! 
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Volunteer Opportunity

Putney Foodshelf Needs Volunteers
We are looking for volunteers to fill out the following teams as soon as this week:
Open Hours (Fridays 1-4 p.m. and Saturdays 8:30-11 a.m.)
VT Foodbank: pick up, unload, and restock (Fridays 7:45am-8:30 a.m.)
If you, or anyone you know, might be interested in volunteering, we'd love to hear about it!
Start by filling out this form and we'll be in touch. Volunteering can be a fun and gratifying way to connect to the community. 
If you are already a Foodshelf volunteer and would like to sign up for one of these shifts, please let us know asap by signing up through our regular signup portal or emailing [email protected]. Thank you! 

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COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS AND RESOURCES

Endorse Vermont’s Reproductive Liberty Amendment
Have questions? Please contact Charlie Gliserman, Policy & Prop 5 Campaign Manager at [email protected] or (802) 338-6811.
The Reproductive Liberty Amendment, previously Prop 5, will be a ballot measure in Vermont's 2022 General Election. If passed, it would amend Vermont's constitution to protect every person's right to make their own reproductive decisions, like whether and when to become pregnant, use temporary or permanent birth control, or seek abortion care. 
An endorsement is a public statement of support for the Reproductive Liberty Amendment, which may be featured on the Vermont for Reproductive Liberty website (reprolibertyvt.org) and its campaign communications. 
An endorsement is a powerful way to show Vermont that you or your organization is proud to support the Reproductive Liberty Amendment. Join us in this campaign, powered by and for Vermonters, to protect reproductive freedom for all.
You can find the endorsement form HERE.

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In Home Covid 19 Vaccines and Boosters

If you are homebound and not able to leave your home for medical services, you can get your COVID-19 vaccination and booster in your home.

• If you are in the service of a local home health agency, the agency will reach out to you to schedule an appointment.
• If you are not in the service of a home health agency, you may request an appointment by calling 802-863-7240 (toll-free 833-722-0860) Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm.

www.healthvermont.gov/MyVaccine

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Covid 19 Pop-Up Testing and Vaccinations
Testing and vaccinations are available for all. 
If you need testing or a vaccine, there are a variety of options available to you: your primary care provider, pop-up sites and pharmacies. The Test Site Finder below can help you find other testing near you.
HEALTH DEPARTMENT POP-UP TESTING LOCATIONS
Here are the steps to set up a testing appointment at a pop-up testing site:

• Register to get an account
• Receive an email with your patient ID and use that to confirm your account (check your spam folder if you don't see the email)
• Log in with your patient ID
• Set up an appointment

Register for Pop-Up Testing Here

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The Village Closet
on the Wintson Prouty Campus (60 Austine Drive, Brattleboro, VT, 05301), in Croker Hall.
Open Wednesdays from 4pm-6pm and Saturdays from 10am-12pm, or
by appointment. For more information, please email [email protected].
Your source for free baby, children, and pregnancy clothing/items. Donations of gently used items accepted. We are collecting new and "like new" children's coats and winter gear for our Kids in Coats partnership with United Way of Windham County.  If you have items to donate, please stop by today if you are able!
On Wednesdays, Everyone Eats will be distributing free dinners on campus from 3:30pm-4:30pm.

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FREE HEALTHY AND NUTRITIOUS FOOD IN WINDHAM COUNTY

Brigid’s Kitchen, St. Michael’s Church, 47 Walnut Street, Brattleboro 802-254-6800 or 802-558-6072 
Grab-and-go lunches and fruit/nuts on Mon, Weds, Thus, and Sat, 11:30am-12:20pm.

Loaves and Fishes, Centre Congregational Church 193 Main Street, Brattleboro (802) 254-4730
Grab-and-go lunches on Tuesdays and Fridays at 12pm.

VT Foodbank and Veggie Van Go will be at Brattleboro Union High School (Fairground Ave, Brattleboro, VT, 05301), in the parking lot, on the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month, from 10am-11am. Drive up, touchless pickup. Walkers welcome, too. Call VT 211 for more information. 

Foodworks, the food shelf program of the Groundworks Collaborative https://groundworksvt.org (802) 490-2412, [email protected] 
Foodworks has open hours for curbside pickup on Mondays 11am-4pm, Wednesdays 1pm-6pm, Fridays 12pm-4pm, last Saturday of each month from 9am-12pm. Deliveries are available onTuesdays across Windham county. Please email [email protected] or call 802-490-2412 with any questions!
Households in need of food are asked to call or email to coordinate delivery. There is an urgent need for volunteers, and Foodworks has set up protocols to keep staff, volunteers, and clients as safe as possible. Please email us at [email protected] if you are able to help.

Marlboro Community Food Share
hosted by the Marlboro Community Center
Wednesday 10am-2pm; Thursday 10am-5pm; Friday 10am-12pm; Saturday 10am-12pm at the Marlboro Community Center (524 South Road, Marlboro, VT, 05344). 
The Marlboro Community Center invites you to fill a bag with non-perishable grocery items. Food is set up in the main space and is available during our open hours. Eggs and produce on Thursdays as available. No registration or eligibility required. Deliveries can be made through Marlboro Cares for those needing assistance. Please call Marlboro Cares at 258-3030 in advance to arrange a delivery.
To donate food:
Leave non-perishable food in the donation box at the Marlboro Post Office. It will be collected on a weekly-basis. (Please note that this box previously supplied the Deerfield Valley Food Pantry, which is now distributing food exclusively from VT Food Pantry) 
Gardeners and farmers are welcome to donate produce. Wear masks and wash hands when harvesting and handling food. Fresh produce can be dropped off at the Community Center on Thursday between 1pm and 4pm. (Any leftover produce will be taken to FoodWorks the following morning)

Guilford Food Pantry 
Every Thursday at the Guilford Fairgrounds. 5pm-6pm.
We know that supplemental food can make such a big difference in one's budget. That is why we are stocking our shelves for our neighbors. All are welcome to come and take home fresh produce, staples, meat, dairy. Guilford Cares welcomes anyone in need of supplemental food for themselves or their families.

Putney Foodshelf Weekly Open Hours 
Fridays at Christian Square, Putney, VT, 05346. 1:30pm-3:30pm.
Saturdays at Christian Square, Putney, VT, 05346. 9am-10:30am. (NEW HOURS!)
We also have a food drop at the Putney Meadows parking lot every 4th Thursday, from 9am-9:45am.
Message us on our FB page HERE, call 802.387.8551, or email [email protected] with questions. www.putneyfoodshelf.org
Curbside Open Hours. All are welcome - we just ask you to provide your town of residence and number in household for our data tracking purposes.
Stay in your car, please. Volunteers will take your order and bring out boxes of food, including nonperishable items, fresh produce, paper goods, meat, and dairy products.

Everyone Eats continues, including grab-and-go meals at these times and locations: 

• There is no longer an Everyone Eats distribution at Turning Point on Sundays, as Edible Brattleboro is dormant in the winter.
• The meals at Retreat Farm are stocked in their farm stand for pick up anytime, first come first serve. We are planning to stock on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Folks receiving services through Foodworks, Loaves and Fishes, and the Brattleboro Community Justice Center can obtain free meals through those organizations.
You can also order Everyone Eats! meals directly from participating restaurants using the Localvore App.

Our Place Drop-In Center at 4 Island Street, Bellows Falls, VT, 05101. Call us at 802-463-2217 for assistance. Email at [email protected]. Please wear a mask to keep our employees and yourself safe.
Hours of Operation:
Monday-Wednesday: 8:30am-4pm
Thursday: 8:30am-1pm
Friday: 8:30am-4pm
Saturday and Sunday: Closed
Our Place Drop-In Center operates a food pantry and meal site where they serve breakfast with to-go meals that are ready for pickup by 9am. Lunch is ready by 11:30am. 
Everyone is welcome to stop by to get a meal. At this time we are allowing only employees in the building.

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ADDITIONAL COVID 19 RESOURCES CAN BE FOUND AT THEIR PERMANENT HOME ON OUR WEBSITE, HERE: https://www.wecantogether.net/covid19_resources

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RESOURCE FOR WeCAN

Rapid Response Text Alert System

When WeCAN began, Song & Solidarity set up a Rapid Response Text Alert System for WeCAN Groups. Directions for signing up are on WeCAN's website, here: https://www.wecantogether.net/rapid_response. We are grateful to Song and Solidarity for providing this service.

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ONGOING EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMING 

Indigo Radio
Sundays at 1pm on Brattleboro Community Radio 107.7FM. To stream live, visit: www.wvew.org 
Indigo Radio, deepening understanding and making connections! IndigoRadio is a group of area educators seeking to learn through engaging with others in our community and throughout the world. We will be talking about educational and social issues both globally and locally and connecting them to our lives and Brattleboro community. Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/indigoradiowvew/. For archive recordings of past shows: https://soundcloud.com/user-654648353. 

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With Covid cases again on the rise, we encourage you to wear masks and social distance when indoors. Thank you!

Your Friendly WeCAN Editors,

Joanna and Sam